COVID 19 vaccine distribution begins at King-Bruwaert House

More than 300 King-Bruwaert House (KBH) residents, staff and consulting specialists received the first inoculation of the COVID-19 vaccine on Jan. 23. Members of the pharmacy staff from Walgreens were based at the continuing care retirement community for six hours to distribute the Pfizer vaccine at several on-site KBH locations. All those receiving the vaccine completed advance authorization forms and were asked to wear masks and maintain social distancing while waiting for the distribution. The second phase of the vaccine will be administered mid-February.

“We are very pleased to offer this vaccine at a time when COVID-19 cases continue to impact the public,” said KBH CEO Terri Bowen. “Older adults have been especially vulnerable to this virus and we are thankful to have the vaccine available from our Walgreens healthcare partner. We remain optimistic that with increasing distribution of this two-part vaccine, the number of COVID-19 cases will steadily decline in our state and country.”

Since January, 2020, King-Bruwaert House has been at the forefront of continuous efforts to safeguard and protect residents, staff and consulting specialists from COVID-19 exposures. KBH joined with three other local retirement communities to communicate the need for Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to address concerns relating to the availability of COVID-19 testing options, as well as state-wide shortages of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Through letters and calls, KBH and the consortium encouraged the state to prioritize the needs of nursing homes and senior care communities. KBH also implemented a strict low-or no-visitor policy throughout the year to reduce the potential for any COVID-19 carriers within the buildings or grounds.

When testing became available, KBH responded quickly to requirements and recommendations established by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and required all staff and consultants to be tested weekly with protocols. As mandated, testing results were sent to IDPH and regular updates were provided to all residents, family members and staff.

“We are especially proud of our staff for their courage and professionalism in taking exceptional care of our residents since the start of the pandemic,” Bowen continued. “They represent the heart, soul and spirit of our organization and we offer them our deepest gratitude for making a difference. We also appreciate the support and cooperation of our residents who complied with state guidance measures and helped us to reduce our risks. This has been a team effort all the way and we are truly thankful to everyone.”